Hello Kitty.

The saying ‘what goes around comes around’ could not be more accurate in the world of fashion as the kitten heel claws its way back to the forefront of our shelves. Yes, love them or loathe them the controversial heel is back in time for the festive season... but will they be top of your Christmas wish-list, or would you frankly be happier with a lump of coal?

I have never been a fan of the kitten heel and have long considered them the ugly step-sister of the heel family. Despite being a tall 5’9”, nothing makes me feel instantly more confident and ready for a night out than my highest pair of Kurt Geiger’s. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the stunted kitten heel. On a recent shopping trip to the haven I know I can always rely on, Topshop, my heart sank when I spotted several pairs of the unsightly shoe. I felt so let down and wondered if I’d walked in to Bon Marché by mistake. Even Topshop failed to make them appealing; they just scream ‘middle-aged’ rather than ‘million dollars.’

Considering I have a long list of heel-related injuries (killer heels did not get their name for nothing), the kitten heel would seem a sensible option for me to adopt. Yet the very purpose of a heel is to lengthen legs and define calves and the kitten heel fails on both counts; far from purrfect. Ok, they may be easier to walk in, may halve your number of drunken falls, will more than likely spare you a trip to A&E and may even leave you with a shred of dignity, but where’s the fun in that?!

In spite of my aversion, the 5cm heel has always had its fans since its first appearance in the 1950s. Audrey Hepburn can be noted as the heels greatest ambassador and Michelle Obama has made the kitten heel a staple feature of her look today. With designers Marni, Betty Jackson, and Missoni welcoming the heel back to the catwalk this season, and high street stores following (suitably) in foot; it seems that like it or not, we will be seeing more of the smaller heel around. Even style queen Alexa Chung has been spotted fashioning a pair and if they’re good enough for Alexa...

So, the question is: will you be reviving the heel of the 50’s this winter, or staying loyal to your 5 inch favourites? I know what I’ll be doing.



1. Christian Louboutin Souris Strass 70 Crystal-Embellished Pumps: £1,325
2. ASOS Scarlet Slingback Patent Point Kitten Heels: £30.00
3. Topshop Prim Premium Chain Point Court Shoes: £85.00
4. Zara Leopard Court Shoe: £59.99

Post written by Jacqui Kearney.